An Iftar event held at Fir Park in Motherwell has become the target of online criticism. The event, which aimed to bring the community together, saw Tommy Robinson flag it up as a sign that Scottish and Western civilization was about to fall.
The Iftar, marking the breaking of the Ramadan fast, was attended by dignitaries and local residents. Around 250 local Muslims participated, with the intention of promoting understanding and dispelling negative stereotypes.
Community Event Met With Online Hate
Tommy Robinson, described as having odious influence, portrayed the Fir Park Iftar as a sign that the British way of life was under threat. He urged fans to boycott matches until the club pledged not to host such gatherings again. The online reaction included a deluge of hateful comments, many believed to be from bots.
Those who attended the Iftar found the online representation almost comical, were it not for the hateful reaction that followed.
Nil By Mouth Responds to Criticism
Dave Scott, of ant-sectarianism and racism charity Nil By Mouth, stated that he wasn’t surprised by the online reaction. He stressed the importance of distinguishing between online commentary and real-world actions. Scott challenged those angered by the Iftar to consider who contributes positively to the community.
“Guys like Tommy Robinson are just trolls posting things and saying things about areas they don’t know, don’t care for, and wouldn’t spend a f****** pound in,” Scott said.
Scott added: “They are telling you these people are taking over. But these people are working in your communities. They are working in your hospitals. They are working in your shops.”
He questioned whether people would listen to someone who lives in Dubai and has spent his life sowing division, rather than considering their neighbours and friends of different religions.
Local Support and Community Contribution
Scott highlighted the local support for Motherwell when the club was in trouble. He asked where Tommy Robinson was during that time.
Fahim Baqir, chair of The Well Foundation, was approached by Motherwell to help plan the Iftar event.
The Iftar event at Fir Park was intended to be an open invitation to break bread with neighbours, and break down misconceptions.